A FORMER mayor of Darlington has pledged to lose his trademark locks for charity.

Coun Bill Dixon has not had his hair cut since he was in office as mayor three years ago.

Even then he only had a few inches cut off but he has promised to lose his ponytail if The Giving Tree appeal can raise £20,000 by Tuesday, December 10.

He said: "People are always asking me when I am going to get my hair cut and I realised it could be a good way to raise more money.".

The Giving Tree appeal, supported by The Northern Echo, asks Christmas shoppers to buy an extra gift and drop it off at one of the collection points in Darlington.

The presents are then distributed to deprived families in the town.

This year's collection points are The Northern Echo offices in Priestgate, Alpha Radio in Woodland Road, Asda in Whinbush Way and Matalan in Neasham Road.